As I stated, in my reply to PQ3401/08 and PQ3480/08, the Agreed Programme for Government includes a commitment to expediting the establishment of a statutory Dublin Transport Authority. The principal functions of the proposed Authority are set out in the Programme for Government and will include strategic transport planning; procurement of public transport infrastructure; procurement of public transport services; allocation of current and capital Exchequer funds for the provision of public transport infrastructure and services; regulation of public transport fares, routes, and service levels; delivery of integrated ticketing, integrated passenger information and integrated fares; better integration of transport and land use planning; ensuring effective traffic management. This is in line with the recommendations made in the report of the Dublin Transport Authority Establishment Team.
I intend that the new Authority will have overall responsibility for surface transport in the Greater Dublin Area subject to direction by Government in respect of significant policy issues. The Greater Dublin Area comprises the city of Dublin and the administrative counties of South Dublin, Fingal, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow. Preparation of the necessary legislation is in its final stages. I will bring a Memorandum to Government when this important work is completed. However my overriding priority remains to establish a statutory Authority that will be effective.